Walmart Stores, the Walmart Foundation, and the United States Conference of Mayors have announced the launch of a $10 million fund to help create and support solutions to the challenges associated with onshoring and the revival of manufacturing in the United States.

Part of the company's commitment to buy an additional $250 billion in American-made products, the Walmart U.S. Manufacturing Innovation Fund initially will focus on innovation in textiles manufacturing and manufacturing processes that apply to a range of consumer goods, including small motor manufacturing and tooling for injection molding, with grants of at least $100,000 to be awarded to academic and research institutions, think tanks, and nonprofits working to deliver such innovations. In addition, every applicant will need to secure sponsorship from the mayor of a USCM member city.

"Through the Walmart U.S. Manufacturing Innovation Fund, we hope to help remove the barriers to revitalizing and growing  U.S. manufacturing, creating jobs, and building a stronger American economy," said Cindi Marsiglio, the company’s vice president of U.S. sourcing and domestic manufacturing. "This is part of Walmart and the Walmart Foundation's broader commitment to foster new ideas and jobs to promote strong communities and grow America's manufacturing footprint."